Every fortnight I write a "Kev's Column" for the Torbay Weekly and you can read the latest edition (Published on Thursday 16th May 2024) below:
Levelling Up
Work to regenerate Oldway will be at the heart of the new Levelling Up Partnership (LUP) between Torbay Council and the Conservative Government, thanks to £8m of new funding for it.
The funding from the Government is not only about getting the first phase of the Oldway Masterplan delivered, but also opening the door to securing other funding and investment into restoring and reviving what many call the bay’s crown jewel. Whilst there are encouraging signs the Heritage Lottery Fund may offer significant support, previous suggestions a single bid could secure the £54m needed to deliver the entire Masterplan were unrealistic.
Oldway is not the only major project set to benefit from the new LUP, with £7m of funding also included towards delivering the ambitious plans for Paignton & Preston Seafront. These include necessary improvements to sea defences and welcome upgrades to the main seafront following public consultation.
Issues with finding a home is the most regular item raised at my weekly surgeries, hence the LUP includes a £3m contribution towards getting derelict or unused holiday accommodation converted into homes. Alongside welcome work by the Conservative Leadership of Torbay Council to drive forward regeneration projects which will deliver much needed new homes, especially for key workers, this funding will help convert eyesores into family homes.
The LUP also includes support for two projects which have been driven forward by the local communities they affect, Parkfield House and the Melville Square improvements. Brixham will receive funding to support the Central Square & Carpark public realm improvements.
The LUP is a welcome boost for our bay, which I have been delighted to work with Anthony Mangnall, Torbay Council and the Torbay Place Board to help secure.
TUFC
Just 10 days after they were named as the preferred bidders, the Bryn Consortium were today confirmed as the new owners of Torquay United Football Club.
The Bryn Consortium worked closely with the Torquay United Supporter’s Trust (TUST) in preparing their bid for the club. A welcome sign of a completely changed approach to engaging with the fans which make the club what it is.
After all the disappointment and arguments of recent years, culminating in the club going into administration, there is a real sense of relief and optimism about the future of Torquay United today. No-one should think there are simple cures to the club’s issues or that a take-over will mean instant success, but it does mean we now have a fresh start to meet the challenges.
I congratulate the new owners on their successful purchase and look forward to working with them as they seek to make Torquay United the League Club fans deserve.
Surgery Times
My next surgeries are on: Saturday 18th May 11am till 1pm at Paignton Library, Great Western Road, Paignton TQ4 5AG and Friday 24th May 10am till 12Noon at 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD.
Surgeries are for personal queries from residents they would like me to help them with. For an appointment you can either email me at [email protected] or leave a message on 01803 214989. There are also drop-in sessions at my office 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD between 10am & 1pm Monday to Friday where a member of my team will be available to help with any queries.
